Biography

1956, Lisle, Illinois, USA. Encouraged in her musical inclinations by her parents, saxophonist Floyd Barber and singer Peggy Orton, Patricia was taught piano by her father from the age of five, soon moving on to formal lessons. Following the death of her father when she was nine, the family relocated to Sioux City, Iowa. Her classical music studies continued through high school and at the University of Iowa. Although she had played saxophone in her high school band, it was not until after graduation from university that Barber turned wholly to playing jazz piano. She worked professionally in Iowa City for about a year before returning to the city of her birth where she formed her own trio. Her eclectic style of piano playing and of singing, and her broad, pop- and rock-influenced repertoire led to an uphill struggle for recognition by those who would pigeonhole artists. She persevered and was rewarded with a long-lasting engagement at Chicagos Gold Star...